Descovy

Buy DESCOVY® Original & Generic in Thailand

At PULSE Clinic, we prioritise accessibility and affordability for essential medications like Descovy. We offer both the original brand and generic versions to ensure everyone has access to high-quality HIV prevention options that fit their budget.

What is Descovy® HIV PrEP?

Descovy® is an innovative medication specifically designed for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV infection. It combines two active ingredients, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), which work synergistically to block the replication of HIV in the body. By adhering to the prescribed regimen, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting HIV.

Important Considerations

DESCOVY for PrEP is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for individuals assigned female at birth who are at risk of contracting HIV through vaginal sex, as its effectiveness in this group has not been evaluated.
Before starting or while using DESCOVY for PrEP, it is essential to verify and maintain an HIV-negative status through regular testing.

What is Emtricitabine/Tenofovir Alafenamide (FTC/TAF)?

DESCOVY is a newer PrEP medication containing emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), replacing the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) found in Truvada. TAF delivers higher concentrations of tenofovir into cells, achieves protective levels more rapidly, and sustains these levels longer compared to TDF. For individuals who may miss doses occasionally, TAF might offer better protection.

The DISCOVER Study

The DISCOVER study demonstrated that TAF was "non-inferior" to TDF in preventing HIV but did not establish superiority. In this study, 11 participants taking TDF contracted HIV compared to 6 participants on TAF (excluding those with suspected acute HIV infections at baseline). While this difference is not statistically significant, some debate remains about whether TAF is truly more effective than TDF. As of January 2021, no evidence suggests that DESCOVY is superior to Truvada in preventing HIV.

What are Truvada and Descovy?

• Truvada: Truvada is one of the first medications approved for PrEP, containing the active ingredients emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (F/TDF). It is highly effective in preventing HIV transmission when taken daily and is approved for use by all individuals at risk of contracting HIV through sexual activity, including those assigned female at birth.
• Descovy: Descovy is a newer PrEP option available in Hong Kong, containing emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide (F/TAF). Compared to Truvada, Descovy delivers higher concentrations of tenofovir into cells and maintains protective levels for a longer duration, potentially offering better efficacy for individuals who occasionally miss doses.

What is Truvada v.s Descovy?

Benefits of TAF

One significant advantage of TAF is its reduced risk of kidney complications and bone density loss compared to TDF. Both DESCOVY and Truvada are globally recommended as first-line therapies for HIV prevention and treatment and are also approved for managing hepatitis B.

Seven years after Truvada's approval as the first PrEP option, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved DESCOVY for PrEP on October 3, 2019. This approval provides an additional option for HIV-negative individuals at risk of contracting HIV through sexual activity.

Standard Dosage

Take one tablet daily, with or without food.

Each tablet contains 200 mg of emtricitabine and 25 mg of tenofovir alafenamide.

Suitable for adults and children weighing at least 55 pounds (25 kg).

Crushing or splitting tablets is not recommended as it may alter the effectiveness; TAF is water-soluble but has a bitter taste.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses simultaneously.

Use Restrictions: DESCOVY is not recommended if

Your creatinine clearance (CrCl) is less than 30 mL/min.

You are undergoing dialysis.

Children weighing less than 77 pounds are using a boosted HIV protease inhibitor.

Additional Precautions

DESCOVY should not be taken alongside other antiviral medications unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Many single-tablet regimens (STRs) already contain TAF, increasing the risk of drug interactions.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products, to avoid potential interactions.

Why is Descovy Better Than Other HIV PrEP Options in Thailand?

Descovy is considered a leading choice for HIV PrEP due to several advantages over other options:

• Enhanced Safety Profile: Descovy contains tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), which is associated with a lower risk of kidney and bone-related side effects compared to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), found in older PrEP medications like Truvada. This makes Descovy a safer option, particularly for long-term use.
• Reduced Side Effects: Clinical studies indicate that users of Descovy experience fewer gastrointestinal side effects than those taking PrEP with TDF. TAF’s formulation is gentler on the stomach, improving overall tolerability.
• Proven Efficacy: Descovy is highly effective in preventing HIV transmission when taken as prescribed. Research has shown that it offers robust protection for individuals at high risk of exposure.
• Convenient Dosing: Like other PrEP medications, Descovy is taken once daily. Its efficacy remains strong even if an occasional dose is missed, though consistent daily adherence is recommended for optimal protection.
• Reduced Impact on Bone and Kidney Health: TAF, the active prodrug in Descovy, minimizes the impact on bone mineral density and kidney function, making it a better option for individuals with pre-existing bone or renal concerns.

How Can I Get Descovy Delivered in Thailand?

Absolutely! PULSE Clinic makes it easy to purchase Descovy online. Whether you prefer the original brand or a generic version, we can deliver it directly to your doorstep in Thailand. Simply provide a valid prescription, and our licensed ePharmacy will handle the rest.

Taking Charge of Your Sexual Health

Choosing Descovy for HIV PrEP is a proactive step toward safeguarding your sexual health. With its enhanced safety, reduced side effects, and proven efficacy, it’s a preferred choice for many individuals worldwide. However, always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best PrEP option tailored to your specific health needs and lifestyle.

At PULSE Clinic, your well-being is our priority. Take control of your health today by opting for Descovy, the trusted choice for HIV prevention in Thailand.